Questions @ kit cab/drawer hinges/slides

We are looking at a total kitchen remodel, including new wood cabinetry, and are overwhelmed by (among other things...jeez, this is a tough job for the ignorant!) the variety of hinges and slides available. We want to start by considering the very best quality hinges and slides there are (and then work down if forced to by some outrageous costs). Anyway, we want hidden hinges that prevent cabinet doors from opening so far that they contact the cabinet fronts...some sort of limiting stop mechanism, I guess I'm saying. As for drawer slides, we want all-metal (I assume they exist) slides that allow full extension of the drawers, are rated (for some pull-out shelves, at least, that will hold heavy pots, pans, and/or kitchen appliances) for at least 100 lbs., and are of the self-closing/non-slam variety. Also, are under-mount or side-mount slides better? I would suspect side-mounts, but, like I said, we're ignorant in these matters. Are hidden or exposed slides an option? Which is better, or is this purely cosmetic? I realize this is a lot to ask, but any information will be greatly appreciated. Top brand names to look at would also be a nice starting point. Thanks a bunch!

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Questions @ kit cab/drawer hinges/slides

What I have done, to become educated on what the different styles and accessories are out there to be had, is to visit the local cabinet shops and take note of cost, looks, sturdiness and functionality.

If you have one near by don't leave Ikea off the list of places to visit, they have some very sturdy designs for pull out drawing, draw slides and door hinges, all at very reasonable prices.

Mark

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Questions @ kit cab/drawer hinges/slides

Quote:

Originally Posted by janralix

We are looking at a total kitchen remodel, including new wood cabinetry, and are overwhelmed by (among other things...jeez, this is a tough job for the ignorant!) the variety of hinges and slides available. We want to start by considering the very best quality hinges and slides there are (and then work down if forced to by some outrageous costs). Anyway, we want hidden hinges that prevent cabinet doors from opening so far that they contact the cabinet fronts...some sort of limiting stop mechanism, I guess I'm saying. As for drawer slides, we want all-metal (I assume they exist) slides that allow full extension of the drawers, are rated (for some pull-out shelves, at least, that will hold heavy pots, pans, and/or kitchen appliances) for at least 100 lbs., and are of the self-closing/non-slam variety. Also, are under-mount or side-mount slides better? I would suspect side-mounts, but, like I said, we're ignorant in these matters. Are hidden or exposed slides an option? Which is better, or is this purely cosmetic? I realize this is a lot to ask, but any information will be greatly appreciated. Top brand names to look at would also be a nice starting point. Thanks a bunch!

You're describing the hardware used on most cabinets. Most companies use one type of hardware. You don't pick the hardware you'd like from a list of options. Companies like Kraftmaid use 110 degree european hinges for the doors and full extension guides for the drawers. Some companies have undermount guides, some have side mounted guides.
Go to a few kitchen cabinet sellers and look around. Kick a few tires.
Ron

Questions @ kit cab/drawer hinges/slides

Thanks, but I've already done the looking, and that's part of the problem: everyone says their stuff is the best, the standard, etc. I'm trying to hear from some professional cabinetmakers about what types/brands of hinges and slides to expect in what are marketed as "top quality" cabinets...how I can separate the wheat from from the chaff. Sort of like looking at a new car: every salesman says his is the best, but how do you know?

Questions @ kit cab/drawer hinges/slides

Quote:

Originally Posted by janralix

Thanks, but I've already done the looking, and that's part of the problem: everyone says their stuff is the best, the standard, etc. I'm trying to hear from some professional cabinetmakers about what types/brands of hinges and slides to expect in what are marketed as "top quality" cabinets...how I can separate the wheat from from the chaff. Sort of like looking at a new car: every salesman says his is the best, but how do you know?

It doesn't have to be , "the best". It just has to function long term.
Blum hardware will probably out last the ascetics of any cabinet. I've put in kitchens 25 years ago with this hardware.
There are other very good companies out there as well.
Most good cabinet companies will install quality hardware. It's part of the package. Companies that only make particle board cabinets will not have good hardware.
Ron